How to properly care for insufficient blood supply to the brain

Cerebral ischemia means that the brain does not receive enough blood supply due to various reasons, which may cause symptoms such as dizziness, headache, memory loss, etc. For this situation, timely treatment and correct care are crucial. This article will show you how to care for cerebral ischemia.

1. Analysis of potential causes of cerebral ischemia

Progression of arteriosclerosis: As we age, our blood vessel walls may gradually accumulate fat, cholesterol, and other substances, forming what are called plaques. These plaques can narrow or even block blood vessels, limiting blood flow to the brain.

The impact of high blood pressure: Continuous high blood pressure can damage blood vessel walls, causing blood vessel hardening, which reduces blood flow to the brain. In addition, high blood pressure may also cause tiny brain blood vessels to rupture, increasing the risk of stroke.

Heart health concerns: Heart disease, such as coronary artery disease or heart arrhythmias, can affect the heart's ability to pump blood and reduce blood flow to the brain.

Threat of blood clots: Abnormal coagulation factors or hemodynamic changes in the blood may lead to blood clots. If blood clots form in blood vessels in the brain or migrate to the brain, they may block blood flow and cause insufficient blood supply to the brain.

Lifestyle influences: Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking, drinking, a high-fat diet, and lack of exercise, may accelerate the progression of vascular disease, thereby increasing the risk of insufficient blood flow to the brain.

Challenges of Diabetes: The blood vessels of people with diabetes may be more vulnerable to damage, and poor blood sugar control may accelerate the development of arteriosclerosis.

Cervical spondylosis: The vertebral artery is one of the important blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. When the cervical vertebrae are dislocated, it may compress the vertebral artery, causing it to become narrow or spasm, reducing the blood flow through the artery, thereby causing insufficient blood supply to the brain.

Consideration of other factors: including genetic factors, drug side effects, chronic inflammation, etc. may also affect cerebral blood supply.

2. How to properly care for cerebral insufficiency

1. Understand the reasons

First of all, it is necessary to clarify the cause of insufficient blood supply to the brain. Common causes include arteriosclerosis, hypertension, heart disease, etc. Understanding the cause will help to provide targeted care.

2. Control blood pressure

Hypertension is one of the main causes of insufficient blood supply to the brain. According to the "Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Hypertension in China" (2023 edition), maintaining blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Therefore, it is very important to measure blood pressure regularly and adjust medications as prescribed by your doctor. In addition, go to the hospital regularly for a comprehensive cardiovascular and cerebrovascular system examination to detect and deal with potential problems in a timely manner.

3. Eat a balanced diet:

A low-salt, low-fat, high-fiber diet helps control blood pressure and cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, especially dark vegetables and berries, such as spinach, carrots, broccoli, blueberries and strawberries. They are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help protect blood vessel health. Choose fiber-rich foods such as whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oats and whole-wheat pasta. Fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, maintain normal blood sugar control, and promote intestinal health. Choose foods rich in healthy fats, such as fish (especially fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, cod), nuts (such as walnuts, almonds) and olive oil. These fats help reduce inflammation and protect cardiovascular health. Choose low-fat protein sources such as fish, poultry (skinless), beans and soy products. Protein is necessary for the body to repair and maintain tissues, but excessive intake may put a burden on the kidneys.

4. Increase exercise:

Moderate exercise can enhance cardiovascular function and improve blood circulation. The intensity of exercise should be determined according to your own situation. For example, take a 30-minute walk every day, about 5,000 steps, or do other aerobic exercises, such as cycling. In addition, many people's cerebral blood supply is insufficient due to cervical spondylosis. You can move your neck more in daily life. You can try the following movements:

Neck stretch: Sit up straight or stand and slowly turn your head to the left until you feel a slight stretch. Hold this position for about 15-30 seconds and return to the center position. Then turn your head to the right and hold for the same 15-30 seconds. Repeat this movement several times.

Lateral neck flexion exercise: Sit up or stand and slowly tilt your head to one side so that your ear is close to your shoulder. Hold this position for about 15-30 seconds, then return to the middle position. Then tilt your head to the other side and hold for the same 15-30 seconds. Repeat this movement several times.

Neck rotation exercise: Sit up straight or stand up and slowly rotate your head to the left, bringing your chin as close to your shoulder as possible. Hold this position for about 15-30 seconds, then return to the middle position. Then rotate your head to the right and hold for the same 15-30 seconds. Repeat this movement several times.

Shoulder relaxation exercise: Sit up or stand up straight, relax your shoulders and slowly roll them in a circular motion first forward and then backward. Repeat several times.

It is important to make sure you have no other neck problems before doing any exercise.

5. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption:

The harmful substances in tobacco can damage the blood vessel walls and increase the risk of arteriosclerosis, and excessive drinking can cause high blood pressure. Therefore, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake are very important to prevent insufficient blood supply to the brain.

6. Manage stress:

Long-term mental stress may cause high blood pressure, thus affecting blood flow to the brain. You can try meditation, deep breathing, yoga and other methods to relax your body and mind.

7. Regular physical examination:

Regular physical examinations of the cardiovascular system, such as carotid artery ultrasound and electrocardiogram, can detect potential problems in a timely manner and intervene.

In summary, many people have the problem of insufficient blood supply to the brain, and the correct nursing method is crucial for patients with insufficient blood supply to the brain. Through comprehensive measures such as lifestyle adjustment, exercise and psychological care, the symptoms of insufficient blood supply to the brain can be effectively prevented and alleviated, and the quality of life of patients can be improved. However, it should be noted that the nursing plan should be adjusted according to the specific situation of the patient and carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor. (Shi Zongya, Lingshou County People's Hospital, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province)